Student Services

General Information

The Student Services area is administered by the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs. This area provides the following support services to students: career services, academic advising, services for students with disabilities, student success initiatives, including Learning Lab and TRIO, intramural sports, orientation, graduation, judicial affairs, behavioral intervention team, testing, and student activities. The overall goal of Student Services is to support the academic mission while attending to the total development of the student.

Disability Services Statement

Florida Gateway College will adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations as required to afford equal educational opportunity. Students may obtain further assistance and information by calling Terry Auger, coordinator of disability services, at (386) 754-4215. The Disability Services Office is located in Building 017, Room 021, 149 SE College Place, Lake City, FL 32025.

Equal Access/Equal Opportunity Statement

Florida Gateway College does not discriminate in education or employment related decisions on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, religion, disability, age, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or any other legally protected status in accordance with the law. The equity officer is Sharon Best, executive director of human resources, located in Building 001, Room 116, 149 SE College Place, Lake City, FL 32025, and may be reached at (386) 754-4313.

Academic Advising

Academic advising is crucial to a student’s success at Florida Gateway College. Advisors help orient new, readmitted, and transfer students to the college and help guide continuing students to the completion of their degrees. Education plans, degree audits and career selection are important services that are available to students.

Students with questions regarding academic advising should contact Advising Services at (386) 754-4222.

Career Exploration

Student Services Career Center is housed in the Student Union Building. This center provides a variety of career services including interest inventories, resume development, and interviewing assistance.

College and university catalogs, career resource books, and career videotapes are available in the Center. Students have access to these resources from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and until 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday. In addition, the Florida Gateway College Library has a career exploration center where students can check out books on various occupations.

Multicultural Academic Success

The Multicultural Academic Success Program supports Florida Gateway College’s ongoing commitment to create and foster an intellectually and culturally diverse campus community. Scholarships are available to eligible students, as well as:

• Academic Advising
• Mentoring
• Study Groups
• Career Planning
• Early Academic Alert

Contact the Multicultural Programs Advisor at (386) 754-4434.

BayCare Life Management - Student Assistance Program

BayCare Life Management provides a comprehensive student assistance program for Florida Gateway College students. The program provides twenty-four hour telephone access for personal counseling issues. Counseling topics may include stress, anxiety, adjustment to college, depression, substance abuse, unhealthy relationships, time management, etc.

There is no cost to the student for assessment, referral, and up to three counseling sessions per student per year. Students may call BayCare toll free at 1-800-878-5470 to access these free services. These calls and subsequent counseling sessions are confidential. 

Disability Services 

The Disability Services Office is committed to ensuring that all of its programs and services are accessible to students with disabilities. Reasonable and appropriate accommodations for qualified students with documented disabilities are determined by the Disability Services Office and are based upon the need and impact of the specific disability. 

Students are encouraged to come to the Disability Services Office and explore the possibilities and options without feeling a need to commit to utilizing any resources. The student determines how to proceed based on the information presented and personal preferences. All information is confidential and will be used only to coordinate accommodations with appropriate college personnel.

Florida State Board of Education Rule 6A-10.041 authorizes reasonable course substitutions for any person who has a hearing impairment, visual impairment or a specific learning disorder. Substitutions will only be utilized in cases where the person’s failure to meet the requirement is related to the disability and where the failure to meet the requirement does not constitute a fundamental alteration in the nature of the program. Persons with concerns regarding access to programs, services, or activities are asked to contact the Disability Services Office at (386) 754-4393.

Student Success Center

Located in building 059 on main campus, The Student Success Center is a stand-alone, multi-purpose, learning/success center housing the College Wide Learning Lab, College Success Office (Tutors), and TRIO Student Support Services. The Center is available to all FGC students, St. Leo University students, and the general public from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday during all semesters and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. spring and fall semesters. The College Wide Learning Lab provides over 50 computers that are internet accessible and preloaded with software programs commonly required for students. Students may work on assignments using the latest version of Microsoft Office, Canvas, Internet Explorer, FireFox or Chrome, just check their emails or surf the web. Assistance is available for all these systems.  Test proctoring is also available as needed.  For information you may call 386-754-4307 or 386-754-4437.

The Student Success Center provides peer and instructor tutors for all levels of math, Writing, and Reading. Chemistry, Physics, Spanish, and Statistic tutors are also available depending on the current Tutor backgrounds. Tutors receive Level II CRLA (College Reading and Learning Association) training and certification. The center also offers Peer Mentors for college success. Peer mentors are available to provide course assistance for students taking SLS 1501. Tutor and mentor schedules are posted around campus at the beginning of each semester. Contact the Student Success Center for a copy. 

Boot Camp for college readiness, GradesFirst early alert and retention program, and TRIO offices are also a part of The Student Success Center.  If you wish to contact the Success Center or TRIO Program you may call 386-754-4479 or 386-754-4413.

An online tutoring program is also available through Canvas for all FGC students. Net Tutor is available 24/7/365. Tutors are available for a wide variety of subjects. Essay and other writing assignments may also be submitted for tutor review.

TRIO Student Support Services

Florida Gateway College recently became a TRIO SSS College.  The Federal TRIO Student Support Services Program (TRIO SSS) is a Federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO SSS provides: personal college success coaches; academic tutoring; advice and assistance in postsecondary course selection, assist students with information on student financial aid programs, benefits and resources for locating scholarships; assistance in completing financial aid applications. TRIO SSS also provides counseling sessions designed to improve financial and economic literacy; assistance in applying for admission to, and obtaining financial assistance for enrollment in four­-year programs. For more information you may call the TRIO SSS Program office 386-754-4458 or 386-754-4445.

General Rights of Students

1. Nondiscrimination - There shall be no discrimination in any respect by the College against a student (or applicant for admission as a student) based on race, color, age, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, disability, or sexual orientation.
2. Freedom of Speech and Assembly - Students shall have the right to freedom of speech and assembly without prior restraints of censorship, subject to clearly stated, reasonable and nondiscriminatory rules and regulations regarding time, place and manner. For more specific guidance, see the Student Code of Conduct in the Student Handbook, or contact the student activities office at (386) 754-4317.
3. Freedom of Press - In their publications, students are entitled to the constitutional right of freedom of the press, including constitutional limitations on prior restraint and censorship.
4. Protection Against Unreasonable Searches and Seizures - Students are entitled to the constitutional right to be secure in their persons, dwellings, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures. College safety officers or administrative officers may conduct searches and seizures only as authorized by law.
5. Student Representation in College Governance - Students should be represented on campus committees that have the following duties:
   1. To propose policies that affect student activities and conduct.
   2. To make decisions on student activity budget matters.
6. Disruption-free Learning Environment - Discussion and expression of all views relevant to the subject matter are recognized as necessary to the educational process, but students have the right to a classroom free from disruptions which interfere with learning. The instructor sets the standard of acceptable behavior in the classroom. In the interest of preserving the rights of others, a student may be dismissed from a class for unacceptable behavior.
7. Records
   1. General - The Office of Enrollment Services will maintain and safeguard student academic records. All official student and former student records are private and confidential. Separate records may be maintained by the following offices: Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, academic, advising, financial aid, veterans’ affairs, and disabled student services.
   2. Notification of Rights under FERPA - The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include the right to inspect and review education records and the right to request the amendment of education records that are believed to be inaccurate or misleading. Once a student is enrolled as a postsecondary student, parents have no inherent rights to inspect a student’s education records. However, records may be released to parents if:
      1. the student gives written consent,
      2. a subpoena is issued and/or
      3. the parent(s) submits evidence to the Office of Enrollment Services that the student is claimed as a dependent on their most current Federal Income Tax form. Detailed information about FERPA, including who may have access to information contained in your records, is available in the Student Records - FERPA  section of this catalog, at the Office of Enrollment Services in Building 015, or on the College Web site at www.fgc.edu/students/registration-and-records/ferpa/. You have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

8. Students With Disabilities - Florida Gateway College will comply with all Federal and State laws related to the civil rights of the disabled, including the American with Disabilities Act, the ADA Amendments, the Rehabilitation Act and the Rehabilitation Act Amendments. For qualified persons with appropriate documentation of their disabilities, this may include the reasonable substitution of requirements for admission to the College, admission to a program of study or graduation from Florida Gateway College.  For additional information, stop by the Disability Services Office in Building 17, Room 21, call us at (386) 754-4393, or email us at disability.services@fgc.edu.
9. Student Privacy Information - The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides certain privacy rights to students related to educational records. This information can be found in the Student Records - FERPA  section of this catalog, at the Office of Enrollment Services in Building 015 or on the College Web site: www.fgc.edu/students/registraration-and-records/ferpa/.

Orientation

Florida Gateway College believes that one of the keys to student success is a positive orientation experience. The orientation program is designed to facilitate the smooth transition of students to college and is strongly encouraged for all first-time-in-college students. Once admitted, students should meet with an advisor and schedule their New Student Orientation and Registration session. Please contact Advising Services at (386) 754-4222 for more information.

Online Self-Service for Students

Students with a Personal Identification Number (PIN) may access online self-service for students from the MyFGC link on the College’s Web page. Among other things, students may:

1. Register for classes, including add/drop, during established registration periods
2. Pay for classes
3. View or print schedule of classes
4. View or print unofficial transcripts
5. View and print final grades
6. View account summary
7. Perform degree evaluations to see classes or other requirements for a major
8. Update address
9. View assigned student e-mail address
10. Check financial aid status
11. View and accept/decline financial aid awards

Student Activities

Located in Building 007, The Charles W. Hall Student Center offers students a variety of leisure time activities. From ping pong, to pool, to air hockey, there are many ways to pass the time recreationally. Additionally, we offer giant sized chess, giant Jenga, and several TVs available for playing video games. There is Wi-Fi available for students who bring laptops. This office works with students in three vital areas of college life: activities and programs, student government, and the processing of identification cards.

The Student Activities Office provides a diversified program of both social and cultural activities to enhance a student’s college education. The College attempts to provide both on- and off-campus activities to augment the learning experience. Some of these activities have included trips around Florida and the southeastern United States. On-campus activities include fall and spring festivals, cultural events, workshops, game shows, art contests, and trips. For the outdoors- minded, canoes may be rented from the Student Activities Office.

Located inside the Charles W. Hall Student Center is the College Fitness Center. All current students may use the fitness center at no charge while classes are in session. Students should present their college ID for admittance.

Student Government Association

Student Government at Florida Gateway College operates through elected representatives and club representatives. The Student Government Association serves as a liaison between the student body and the College administration. Students are urged to become involved in the executive or legislative branches of Student Government as time and opportunity permits.

The Student Government Association meets on a regular basis. Students interested in becoming part of this organization should contact the Coordinator of Student Activities at (386) 754-4317 for additional information.

Student Representation in College Governance

Students are represented on campus committees that have the duty to propose policies that affect curriculum, programs, student activities and conduct. Student representatives are recommended for these committees by the Student Government Association and appointed by the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs.

Identification Cards

A student identification (ID) card may be obtained from the Student Activities Office. Any registered student is eligible for a card. The student’s picture, name, and student ID number appear on the card, which serves as campus identification and entitles the student to library privileges, admission to all student activities-funded events, and voting privileges in student elections.

An ID card is valid for two years from the date of issue. The initial card is free. A charge of $5 will be made to replace a lost card.

When a student goes to the Student Activities Office to obtain photo ID cards, he/she needs to bring a copy of his/her class schedule. The student must also present a photo ID.

Clubs

Students interested in joining a student organization or club can find a list of current groups on the Student Activities Club webpage, or by contacting the Student Activities Office. Any student interested in creating a new club can pick up the required paperwork in the Student Activities Office.

Notification of Social Security Number Collection and Usage

Office of Enrollment Services

NOTIFICATION OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER COLLECTION AND USE: In compliance with and pursuant to Florida Statute 119.071 (5), 1008.386, 1002.22(2), and SBE Rule 6A - 1.0955 (3)(e), Florida Gateway College (FGC) issues this notification regarding the purpose of the collection and use of your Social Security number. FGC collects your Social Security number for use in performance of the college’s duties and responsibilities. In a seamless K-20 educational system, it is beneficial for postsecondary institutions to have access to the same information for purposes of tracking and assisting students in the transition from one educational level to the next. Federal legislation relating to the Hope Tax Credit requires that all postsecondary institutions report the Social Security number of all post-secondary students to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This IRS requirement makes it necessary for colleges to collect the Social Security number of every student. A student may refuse to disclose his/her Social Security number to the college, but refusing to comply with the federal requirement may result in fines established by the IRS. Providing your SSN signifies that you consent to the use of your number in the manner described. To protect your identity, FGC will secure your Social Security number from unauthorized access. FGC will never release your Social Security number to unauthorized parties, and each student at FGC will be issued a unique student identification number. Your unique student identification number is used for all educational purposes at FGC including registration, access of your online record, etc. All Social Security numbers are protected by federal regulations, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and are never released to unauthorized parties.

Your SSN is used for legitimate business purposes, as set forth below.

• Completing and processing enrollment certification for students applying for Veterans benefits (Veterans Administration)
• Verifying identification on transcripts for evaluation and award of transfer credit

Human Resources Department

Your SSN is used for legitimate business purposes in compliance with:

• Completing and processing the Federal I-9 (Department of Homeland Security)
• Completing and processing Federal W4, W2, 1099 (Internal Revenue Service)
• Completing and processing Federal Social Security taxes (FICA)
• Processing and distributing Federal W2 (Internal Revenue Service)
• Completing and processing quarterly Unemployment Reports (FL Dept. of Revenue)
• Completing and processing Florida Retirement Contributions reports (FL Dept. of Revenue)
• Completing and processing Workers Compensation claims (FCCRMC and Department of Labor)
• Completing and processing 403(b) and 457(b) Contribution reports and FICA Alternative enrollment
• Completing and processing group health, life, and dental coverage enrollment and census reports
• Completing and processing various supplemental insurance deduction reports
• Verify identification for Employment verification

Providing your Social Security number is a condition of employment at FGC.

Student Conduct

College students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately both on and off campus. Students are subject to federal, state, and local ordinances as well as regulations prescribed by Florida Gateway College. A breach or violation of any of these laws or regulations will result in disciplinary action.

Every student, by the act of registering at Florida Gateway  College, is obligated to obey the rules and regulations established by the College. Specific regulations are outlined in the Student Handbook, which is available through the Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, or on the College Web site.

The College reserves the right to discipline any student whose conduct is considered unbecoming or detrimental to the College or the community.

The Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs is responsible for the administration of student discipline as described in the Student Code of Conduct. The President is the final authority on appeals at the institutional level.